Edinburgh Zoo

Edinburgh zoo is west of the city centre and has been fascinating families for about a 100 years! Set in extensive sloping parkland it provides a safe haven for 1000 interesting, rare and endangered creatures. Not only that but Scotland’s largest wildlife centre also offers imaginative attractions and great visitor facilities as well as a continuous series of activities and events throughout the year.

Special Day Out

Get to the zoo as early as you can (it opens at 9am) to make the most of your special day out – there’s so much to see and do that you’ll need that extra time in the morning. Get hold of, or download, a site map when you get there (or before you arrive) so you and your family can plan what each of you would like to see.

Daily Programmes

As well as the massive range of animals and birds to be seen, there’s a daily programme of talks on favourites such as koalas, chimpanzees, penguins and sea-lion training. There are also summer Animal Antics Show in the Hilltop Arena featuring animals and birds that demonstrate dazzling skills! Travel up to the Hilltop in the free Hilltop Safari, a bush-camouflaged trailer pulled by a matching Land Rover.

Refreshments

Throughout Edinburgh Zoo you’ll find cafes and kiosks offering drinks, snacks and food including special children-sized meals. Picnic places mean you can enjoy your own feast in a superb setting and there are several excellent play areas to burn off some energy after lunch!

Rain Plan

Should it rain on your day out (and it has been known to in Scotland!) then you needn’t worry as there are 11 major indoor areas home to many animals and several sheltered animal observation areas.